The Kimberley Process, the fight against ‘conflict diamonds’

The European Union is a major centre for diamond trade. Within the EU, Council Regulation (EC) No 2368/2002, as amended, sets out the criteria for importing or exporting rough diamonds in order to ensure adherence to the requirements of the ‘Kimberley Process’ (KP).

In 2018 the European Union will hold the KP Chairmanship. In this capacity, the EU aims to make progress in supporting the honest diamond trade, and meet the call of the international community to ensure that the Kimberley Process is equipped to continue playing its role, as a unique tool for conflict prevention and promoting peaceful trade and development.

What is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) was launched in 2002 by a coalition of governments, civil society and the diamond industry in response to the role diamonds play in funding some of the most devastating civil wars in Africa.

The KPCS sets out requirements for participating States to control all imports and exports of rough diamonds. The Scheme puts in place rigorous internal controls over production and trade. Participating States can only legally trade with other participating States who have also met the minimum requirements of the Scheme, and international shipments of rough diamonds must be accompanied by a Certificate guaranteeing that they are conflict-free.

The FPI’s role

Ms Hardeman, Head of the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments, will serve as the Kimberley Process Chair on behalf of the EU in 2018.

Through the FPI, the European Commission represents the EU in the Kimberley Process, and is advised by the EU KP Committee. The Commission also coordinates and monitors the implementation of KP rules within the EU.

The FPI also contributes more generally to policy making on other conflict natural resources.

Facts & figures

The EU holds the Chairmanship of the Kimberley Process in 2018.

Speech by HR/VP Mogherini on the occasion of the handover of the Chairmanship of the Kimberley Process to the EU